Journal 5, September 27th

http://news.cnet.com/8301-10797_3-10360849-235.html?tag=mncol;txt

According to a survey done by he Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics and the Health Care Compliance Association employee social networking is becoming more prevalent than ever before. Employees using social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter to post just about everything that occurs during their day, on and off the job. This type of activity may pose a threat to companies if employees were to post private information or other material that could threaten business. Although most organizations are hesitant to enact any policy on employee activity outside of work, some organizations like the United States Marine Corps have banned the use of social networking sites altogether. While some companies have noted this trend the survey found that most have not. Out of the businesses surveyed most had no policy at all concerning social networking outside of the office. The survey also discovered that of the companies that do have a policy the procedure does not specifically address social networking.
In addition the survey found that most companies have no system for monitoring employee posts even in the office. Most businesses wait for something negative to happen before acting. This survey points out that companies have not kept up with modern technology trends and are not equipped to keep their businesses in check. While this arrangement persists companies will remain exposed and if they do not act quickly employees may reject policies that prevent them from doing what they have done for years without consequence.

As of now social networking sites have the potential to make giant holes in company security if employee posting is not put under control. Companies need to realize that social networking is here to stay and update their system to make sure they are not left exposed. If companies can see what social networking is capable not only will they be protected from it but they can also take advantage of it. Social networking is an excellent way to communicate not only with those within the industry but also potential customers. Companies need to use all the resources that are available to succeed meaning keeping up with the latest technology to make sure thy are not left behind the curve.

Reference:
http://cityflight.com/?p=532